Chapter 3: The Magical Experiments and the Preparation for Adventure

As Aeta slept, she had many dreams, but the longest and most memorable had to be the date she had with Hikaru, her crush from the other world.

In her dream, Aeta found herself back in her own world, in a familiar setting. She was in a charming cafe, the same one she and Hikaru were supposed to meet for their date. The soft ambient lighting created a warm and cozy atmosphere. Aeta was sitting at a small table near the window, her heart filled with excitement and anticipation.

As she gazed out of the window, the street outside was bustling with people, and the sun was setting, casting a beautiful orange and pink hue across the sky. Aeta fidgeted with her silverware, adjusting the dahlia flower she had brought as a gift for Hikaru.

Moments later, she saw Hikaru approaching the cafe. Aeta’s heart raced as Hikaru smiled and waved, and a sense of relief and joy washed over her. Hikaru joined her at the table, and their conversation was easy and filled with laughter. They talked about their interests, shared stories from their lives, and enjoyed the delicious food and coffee.

As the evening continued, they decided to take a walk in the nearby park. The dream was filled with the sound of their laughter, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the soft glow of streetlights. Aeta and Hikaru talked about their dreams and aspirations, their favorite books and movies, and everything in between. It felt like time stood still, and they were completely immersed in each other’s company.

The dream ended with Aeta and Hikaru sitting on a park bench, watching the stars in the night sky. Aeta felt a deep connection with Hikaru, and at that moment, she knew that their date was perfect. They leaned in closer, and their lips met in a sweet and unforgettable kiss.

As she woke up, Aeta carried the warm memories of her dream date with Hikaru in her heart. It filled her with hope and happiness, and she couldn’t wait for the day she might have a real date with her crush.

Then she was reminded that she was no longer on earth, and it was likely she would never be able to go on a date. Aeta was distracted from her thoughts by the arrival of one of the wood elves that had joined to escort her back to the Lord’s manor. “good morning, my lady!” said the wood elf as she opened the blinds, allowing sunlight to enter the guest room Aeta was staying in. “we have a big day ahead of you. Before we leave the Lord’s Manor, you might be able to meet your other family members. Such as our Lord’s wife, and his sons.” The wood elf said.

Aeta greeted the wood elf with a warm smile as the room was filled with the morning light. The prospect of meeting more of her new family members intrigued her. She was curious about the Lord’s wife and sons and looked forward to learning more about them.

“That sounds wonderful,” Aeta replied. “I’d love to meet them and learn more about this world and my new family. Please lead the way when you’re ready, and I’ll be right behind you.”

As they prepared to meet the rest of the Lord’s family, Aeta couldn’t help but think about the differences and similarities between this world and her previous one. She was determined to adapt and make the most of her new life in this fantastical realm.

The wood elf smiled and nodded, “Certainly, but first, my lady, I’ll prepare a bath for you.” She said as she went immediately to the guest room’s bathroom.

Aeta appreciated the thoughtfulness of the wood elf. She was still adjusting to her new life and surroundings, and a bath would be a refreshing start to her day. She nodded in agreement and said, “Thank you that sounds lovely. A bath would be perfect.”

As the wood elf prepared the bath, Aeta took a moment to explore her guest room further. The decorations and furnishings were quite different from what she was used to, but she found them fascinating. The culture of this world was rich and intriguing, and she was eager to learn more about it.

After a minute, sounds of water filled the room as the wood elf prepared the bath for Aeta. She then left the bathroom, saying “The bath is prepared, ma’am, if you need assistance, please let me know!”

“Thank you,” Aeta replied with a warm smile. She entered the bathroom and found the bath waiting for her. The warm water was inviting, and she quickly immersed herself in it, enjoying the soothing sensation. The bath helped her relax and clear her thoughts.

As she soaked in the tub, she couldn’t help but think about her current situation. The dream of going on a date with her crush from her previous world still lingered in her mind. But now, she had a new life and opportunities to explore this fascinating world. After a while, Aeta emerged from the bath feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. She wrapped herself in a provided robe and returned to the main room to continue her day.

When Aeta returned, she’d find that the wood elf had brought out a beautiful outfit for her to wear. “I hope the bath was to your liking, ma’am. As you’ve seen, I’ve prepared an outfit for you to wear, for your meeting with your new family members, and I am reminded you are expected at the Astral Academy as well. So these should suit you there as well.

Aeta smiled at the wood elf’s thoughtful preparations. “The bath was wonderful, thank you. And the outfit is beautiful,” she replied, appreciating the delicate craftsmanship of the clothing. She proceeded to get dressed, feeling a sense of anticipation for the day ahead.

Once she was ready, she gave herself a final look in the mirror and then turned to the wood elf. “I’m ready for the day and eager to meet my new family and explore the Astral Academy. Lead the way.”

The wood elf couldn’t help but gasp at the sight of Aeta in the dress. She thought it made Aeta look beautiful. “Your dress is made out of the finest silk, and it has been enchanted to provide you regenerative healing and extra protection, especially considering your race has a debuff, as Lord Augustus would say when it comes to certain outfits.

Aeta appreciated the thought and care put into the dress. It felt both luxurious and protective, a perfect combination. “Thank you for explaining that. I’m truly amazed by the craftsmanship and the enchantments. It’s a wonderful gift,” she said with a smile. Aeta was looking forward to her day and the new experiences it held.

The wood elf smiled as she heard Aeta’s response, then led the way toward the door. “Your meeting with Lady Emina, the wife of our lord, was arranged to be in the Manor Gardens. She has arranged for the two of you to enjoy muffins and hot chocolate.” The wood elf explained as they walked.

Aeta followed the wood elf, curious about the new experiences that awaited her. “Muffins and hot chocolate in the gardens sound lovely,” she responded, eager to meet more members of her new family and immerse herself in this new world.

As they walked, Aeta realized, she did not know the wood elf’s name, unlike Tomoe, the Forest Ogre Archer, and Ralu, the feline beastkin.

Aeta decided to politely inquire about her companion’s name. “I apologize for not asking earlier, but I don’t believe I know your name. What should I call you?” She smiled warmly at the wood elf.

The Wood elf blinked her eyes before she realized she had not yet introduced herself. “my apologies ma’am! My name is Eliyen,” she said.

“Nice to meet you, Eliyen,” Aeta replied with a friendly smile. “Thank you for your assistance. It’s much appreciated.”

“Oh, my lady, there is no need for thanks. I am only too happy to serve you, though I am honored to meet you again as well!” Eliyen said with a smile. As they entered the hall, they found Tomoe’s back to them. Tomoe turned as the door opened, and greeted Aeta. “good morning, my lady!”

“Good morning, Tomoe,” Aeta replied. “I’m glad to see you again. How are you today?”

“I am well, my lady. I hope you slept well last night!” Tomoe said as she and Eliyen began walking with Aeta, to the Manor Gardens. The Manor servants stepped to the side as they passed, and bowed to the three, though it was more to Aeta and Tomoe whom they bowed to.

The three entered the magical elevator from yesterday, which took them down to the main floor, and Tomoe began leading the way to the Manor Gardens. As they entered, Aeta saw what she thought was the most beautiful woman in the area, and she was elegantly dressed as well. Tomoe approached her, before she spoke “My lady, I bring you lady Aeta as requested!” Tomoe said.

Aeta couldn’t help but feel a little nervous as she stood before Lady Emina. She had a strong presence, and her beauty was striking. Aeta gave a polite bow as she greeted her, “Good morning, Lady Emina. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Lady Emina looked up at Aeta and observed her silently for a few seconds before she smiled at her. “Good morning, dear, now please sit!” She indicated the seat, with its hot chocolate and muffin on the table beside it. “My husband has spoken of you to me at length when his unique skill first brought him disembodiedly to meet you. I fear that he has yet to apologize for how your arrival to our world had been. Indeed, appearing in the midst of monsters spawning, along with the magic particle clouds transforming everything.”

Aeta took the offered seat and smiled, “Thank you, Lady Emina. And it’s understandable; there’s no need for Lord Augustus to apologize. I know it wasn’t his doing.” She took a sip of her hot chocolate, savoring its rich flavor.

“Your husband has been most kind to me, and I appreciate the warm welcome here in Nirvalise. It’s a truly unique and enchanting place,” she added.

“Indeed, out of the continents in our world, Nirvalise is as friendly as it is beautiful,” Lady Emina said. “It is one of the reasons why I love it so.”

“It’s easy to see why,” Aeta replied, looking around the magnificent garden. “Everything here feels so vibrant and welcoming. It’s a stark contrast to what I’m used to on Earth.”

She took another sip of her hot chocolate. “If I may ask, Lady Emina, can you tell me more about this world? I’ve read some of the tome Lord Augustus provided, but it would be wonderful to hear from you as well.”

Lady Emina smiled as she was asked. “Certainly, my love’s tome is extensive, though sadly he’s had to limit himself to this continent, not the others, though he is aware and now likely you know the names of the other continents,” she said, before sipping her own hot chocolate.

Lady Emina soon continued. “We are on the continent of Nirvalise, and specifically we are members of the Verdantwood province, which is a part of the kingdom, of Nirvalisium, named after Thaladir Doton Erulis Nirvalisium, our king, whose great ancestor has united us, the provinces, and the people living here under one banner, but he allows us to govern ourselves, preferring not to dominate us under a dictatorship rule, but a just an honorable king rule.”

“It’s fascinating to hear about the kingdom and the different provinces,” Aeta replied. “I noticed the great diversity in this world among the races and beings. It’s a stark contrast to Earth, where diversity is celebrated but often accompanied by challenges. Is there harmony among the different races in this kingdom? Are there any conflicts or challenges that the kingdom faces?”

Lady Emina “My husband has spoken of Earth in the past, and more recently he’s pleased how much of a harmony there does seem to be, but it hasn’t always been like that. In your Earth stories, there are tales of Elves and Dwarves not being friendly, correct? Here, this was the same way, in the past the dwarves, cursed by greed cared only for wealth and getting it, they didn’t care whose homes or lands they destroyed, but my husband’s great grandfather, and mine, cured the dwarves of the curse. In the past, evil-aligned demons have caused this, and have tried to remake the curse. We face a bitter war, with them, and their own continent, Darkholm. Though at the moment there is an uneasy peace.”

Aeta listened attentively, her curiosity piqued by the differences between Earth and this new world. “It’s remarkable to see how history and cultures can vary so greatly between worlds. I hope that peace can be maintained and strengthened between the different races and beings here in Nirvalise. The world’s diversity is truly a wonder. In my time on Earth, we made great strides in recognizing and celebrating our differences. But, like here, it was not without challenges. It’s heartening to hear that efforts have been made to break down barriers and build peace among the different races.”

She paused for a moment and then asked, “Is there anything I can do to help or contribute to the harmony of this world?”

Lady Emina gently reached out to place a comforting hand on Aeta’s shoulder. “For now, my dear, all I ask, all my husband asks, is that you focus on your studies, learn magic, experiment, and make friends. Not only from other visiting nobles in Astral Academy, but also from those lower in rank, such as servants. You’ll learn much from the academy, and from your friends, and they might provide insight which may eventually help you to think of peace and harmony.”

Aeta nodded, understanding the importance of her education and the potential it held for fostering harmony in this new world. “I’ll do my best to learn and make the most of my time here. I’m eager to discover all I can about Nirvalise and its people, and I’m open to making friends from all walks of life. Thank you for your guidance, Lady Emina. I look forward to what the future holds.”

She took a sip of her hot chocolate and enjoyed the warm, soothing taste.

Lady Emina smiled at her before she removed her hand. “Before we go our separate ways, darling, there is another fact I want you to remember in your heart. You are my daughter, my child same as any member of my family. It doesn’t matter that you did not come from my womb. What does is that Lord Augustus and I love you equally.”

Aeta was touched by Lady Emina’s words and the warmth in her heart. She smiled back at her and nodded. “Thank you, Lady Emina. It means a lot to me to be welcomed with such kindness and love. I’m truly grateful for this opportunity to be a part of your family and this world.”

With those words, Aeta finished her hot chocolate and nibbled on her muffin, savoring the moment and the companionship she was beginning to find in her new home.

As Aeta nibbled on the muffin, she remembered the passage about the other members of her family. “Lady Emina, I remembered reading about the other members of my family, but their name escapes me. Could you remind me of their names, and what do they do? I remember they were all males.”

Lady Emina nodded, pleased by Aeta’s interest. “Of course, dear, we have two sons, your new brothers. The eldest is Prince Cyran, and he’s quite talented in diplomacy and negotiations. He’s often sent on diplomatic missions to other provinces or to represent the family at various functions. Our younger son is Prince Theren, and he’s very skilled in combat and magic. He often leads the provincial army in defense of Verdantwood.”

She paused for a moment to let Aeta absorb the information. “You’ll have the opportunity to meet both of them soon. They are both wonderful young men and I’m sure you’ll get along with them splendidly.”

“Lady Emina is correct, my lady, in addition, Prince Theren will be the first to be introduced, as our next destination is the barracks, just down the street from the Manor, I believe he’s planning on using the training dummy, the dwarves have created for our use. As for Prince Cyran, I heard that he is said to be returning here around noon,” Tomoe interjects helpfully, before stepping back.

Aeta nodded, taking in the information about her new family members. She appreciated the warm and welcoming atmosphere that Lady Emina and everyone else had shown her. “I look forward to meeting them both,” Aeta said with a smile.

Aeta soon finished her muffin, and cleaned her hands on a napkin, that felt a lot like the Kleenex she remembered. She finished her drink and wiped her lips before she stood. “Thank you, Lady Emina, I enjoyed our talk, and I hope that this can continue when I am free.” She said.

Lady Emina smiled warmly. “You’re very welcome, Aeta. I enjoyed our conversation as well, and I look forward to our future meetings. If you ever wish to speak with me or if you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask. Have a wonderful day, dear.”

With that, Aeta, Eliyen, and Tomoe left the garden, making their way to meet Prince Theren and explore more of the Provincial Lord’s Manor.

“mo-Lady Emina is very kind,” Aeta said, and she realized she almost called her mom, something that will probably take time for her to get used to. The faun followed Eliyen and Tomoe out of the Provincial Lord’s Manor, and they walked down the street towards another building, that had the sign on it, of crossed swords.

Eliyen nodded in agreement. “Lady Emina is indeed kind, and she cares for you greatly. You’ll find that your family, even the extended members, are all very welcoming. Now, we’re heading to the barracks to meet Prince Theren. He’s quite a skilled swordsman and enjoys sparring and training. You’ll be meeting him there.”

As they reached the building with the crossed swords sign, it became clear that this was a training facility of some sort. The sound of clashing weapons and shouts of training soldiers filled the air. Tomoe led the way inside, and they could see Prince Theren engaged in a duel with one of the training dummies.

Tomoe called out to him, “Prince Theren, Lady Aeta has joined us today.” Prince Theren immediately halted his practice and turned to face them. “Ah, Lady Aeta, welcome to the barracks. I was just sharpening my skills. I’m Theren, the youngest, of our father’s male children. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” He extended a hand in greeting.

Aeta shook his hand and replied, “It’s nice to meet you too, Prince Theren.”

Eliyen explained, “We thought it would be a good idea for Aeta to meet the family, starting with you. She’s also headed to Astral Academy.”

Prince Theren smiled, “Excellent! You’ll have a fantastic time there, Aeta. It’s a place of both learning and adventure. If you ever want to spar or practice, just let me know.” As they continued talking, Aeta couldn’t help but feel that she was starting to form bonds with her new family, a family unlike any she had ever known back on Earth.

Aeta looked around the barrack’s training arena before she turned to look at Prince Theren, the youngest, though, as she thought about it. With her there, he would be the middle child. “I appreciate your words, elder brother.” She said with a comfortable smile. “although I am going to be focusing on magic while at Astral Academy, I think I should also learn how to wield the sword as well.”

Prince Theren nodded in agreement. “Learning to wield a sword is a valuable skill, even for a Mage. It can help with your physical fitness and, in some cases, magic and swordplay can complement each other. I can certainly give you some basic lessons if you’d like.”

Tomoe chimed in, “Prince Theren is an exceptional swordsman, and his teachings are highly respected in the barracks. It would be a great opportunity for you.”

Eliyen added, “Learning to defend oneself is important, especially in a world with potential dangers. Prince Theren’s guidance will be invaluable.”

Prince Theren smiled at Aeta. “I’d be delighted to teach you. We can start at your own pace. Just let me know when you’re ready.”

Aeta nodded, appreciative of their support and guidance. “Thank you, Prince Theren. I’ll take you up on that offer when the time comes.” With that, they continued their conversation and exploration of the training facility, building connections with her new family in this extraordinary world.

A few minutes later, found Aeta leaving the barracks, with thoughts of learning from her brother Theren, She remembered how when she was young and playing fantasy games, she’d always make sure her character had a sword, even if she had chosen the mage class for them.

She felt a sense of anticipation and excitement about the path she was embarking on in this new world. She knew she had a lot to learn, both in terms of magic and swordplay, and she was determined to make the most of this unique opportunity. With her newfound family’s support and the experiences that awaited her at Astral Academy, she was ready to embrace her new life in Nirvalise.

As the three made it to the town square, the grand clock off to the side alerted them that it was noon. “I think we should perhaps make a stop for lunch unless you are still full from breakfast, Lady Aeta?” Eliyen asked.

Aeta realized she was getting a bit hungry again, having only eaten a muffin earlier. “Lunch sounds like a good idea. I’d like to try some of the local dishes, if that’s possible,” she replied with a smile. She was curious about the food in this world and eager to experience more of its culture.

Her guides nodded and immediately turned and walked towards one of the cafes in their vicinity. As they entered, they were met with someone wearing a chef’s outfit, and what’s more, to Aeta’s eyes, the man looked Japanese, likely surprising her. “Welcome Ladies! Please have a seat. My assistant will show you our menu,” he said, indicating the empty seating that they could use. The chef turned and walked back into the kitchen, as his assistant, a demi-human with a reptilian tail, approached with a menu.

Taking a seat, Aeta’s mind registered that the chef had a Japanese look. This was a surprising and intriguing sight for her. She eagerly accepted the menu from the assistant, who had a reptilian tail, and began looking through it, curious to see what kinds of dishes they offered in this world.

Aeta was delighted to see familiar dishes on the menu. It made her feel a bit closer to home, even in this fantastical world. She decided to order a sushi roll and a bowl of miso soup, hoping that they would taste as good as what she remembered from Earth.

As she made her order, Aeta couldn’t help but ask the assistant, “Is the chef from Japan? These dishes are reminiscent of Japanese cuisine.”

Tomoe nodded her head and spoke up, interrupting the Assistant. “Yeah, he was a victim of an otherworld summon a while ago. Lord Augustus rescued him, and since our lord could not send him back, he allowed the chef to open his restaurant here. As you might expect, it is very popular, he’s a genius when it comes to cooking.”

Aeta found the story fascinating. It was clear that Lord Augustus had a strong sense of justice and kindness. She looked forward to tasting the chef’s creations, especially since they were prepared by someone from her world.

“That’s amazing,” she said with a smile. “I’m really looking forward to trying his food. It’s nice to have a taste of home in this new world.” She continued to chat with her companions as they waited for their food, eager to learn more about her new surroundings and the people in it.